June 24, 2025
Police Department
DATE: June 24, 2025
TO: Mayor Martinez and Members of the City Council
FROM:
Bisa French, Chief of Police
Subject:
Purchase of Air Purifying Respirators from LC Action
FINANCIAL IMPACT: The proposed expenditure of $29,159.54 will come from the proposed Police Department Budget for Fiscal Year
2025-2026 (Account String: 01194021-400603).
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
None.
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
The Police Department Tactical Response Team (TRT) is
requesting approval to purchase air purifying respirators to effectively work and communicate in areas
contaminated with chemical agents.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
APPROVE the purchase of air purifying respirators from
LC Action for a total amount not to exceed $29,159.54 to ensure the safety and effectiveness operating in
environments contaminated with chemical agents –
Police Department (Chief Bisa French 510-621-1802).
DISCUSSION:
It is imperative for members of the Richmond Police Department’s Tactical Response Team (TRT) to be able to work and communicate with each other while operating in environments contaminated with chemical agents. Currently, the team lacks the AGENDA
REPORT
June 24, 2025
necessary protective equipment to operate safely and effectively in such conditions.
This proposal seeks City Council approval for the purchase of air purifying respirators to ensure the safety and effectiveness of TRT members during high-risk operations.
Benefits and Reasons:
1. Protection from Harmful Agents: Air purifying respirators are essential to protect officers from exposure to chemical agents, smoke, and airborne toxins during operations. These masks provide a critical barrier against harmful substances, ensuring that officers can perform their duties without risking their health and safety. This protection is vital for maintaining the well-being of our officers and preventing long-term health issues that could arise from exposure to hazardous materials.
2. Enhanced Communication: Modern air purifying systems have the ability to link directly into radio communications and have voice amplifiers to ease communication while wearing the mask. This feature is crucial for maintaining clear and effective communication among team members during operations, which is vital for coordination and success. Effective communication is essential for executing complex tactical maneuvers and ensuring that all team members are aware of their roles and responsibilities during high-risk incidents.
3. Support for SWAT Team Operations: The RPD SWAT Team has used air purifying respirators for over 20 years. Due to staffing limitations, TRT functions in a support role to the SWAT Team on their high-risk operations. Providing TRT members with reliable air purifying systems ensures that they can effectively support the SWAT Team, enhancing the overall capability and safety of both teams. This support is crucial for the successful execution of high-risk operations and for minimizing the risk to both officers and civilians.
4. Comprehensive Protection: These air purifying systems can protect TRT Team members from being exposed to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear agents. This comprehensive protection is essential for the diverse range of threats that officers may encounter during high-risk critical incidents. By equipping our officers with the best possible protective gear, City staff can ensure that they are prepared to handle any situation that may arise, regardless of the nature of the threat.
5. Operational Effectiveness: City staff recommends the approval of this purchase as it is necessary to provide TRT members with reliable air purifying systems in order for them to do their job safely and effectively during high-risk critical incidents. Ensuring that officers have the proper equipment enhances their ability to respond to emergencies and protect the community. This investment in protective gear will ultimately lead to more successful operations and a safer community for all residents.
June 24, 2025
6. Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Providing air purifying respirators to TRT members ensures compliance with occupational health and safety regulations. It demonstrates the City’s commitment to the well-being of its employees and adherence to best practices in law enforcement. By meeting these regulatory requirements, staff can avoid potential legal issues and ensure that our officers are operating within the bounds of the law.
7. Cost-Effectiveness: Investing in high-quality air purifying systems is a cost- effective measure in the long run. It reduces the likelihood of work-related injuries and illnesses, which can result in costly medical expenses and workers' compensation claims. By preventing these issues, staff can save the City money and ensure that our resources are being used efficiently.
The approval of this purchase is crucial for the safety and effectiveness of the Richmond Police Department’s Tactical Response Team. By providing air purifying respirators, staff can ensure that officers are protected from harmful agents, maintain clear communication, and effectively support SWAT Team operations. City staff urges the City Council to approve this proposal to enhance the safety and operational capability of our officers.
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 – Quote Package